This article is about mythical snake. For other uses, see Hydra. |
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A relief depicting Herakles and the Hydra
The Lernaean Hydra was a gigantic, many-headed snake in the Greek mythology. For every head of the Hydra that was cut off, two more would sprout in its place.
History
The Hydra lived in the region later known as Wetlands of the Hydra in Argolis. The second of the twelve labours performed by the legendary hero Herakles was the slaying of the Hydra. In this he succeeded with the help of his nephew Iolaos, as they burned each neck he cut before new heads could grow back. Another version of the myth said that Herakles used the snake's own venom to prevent its regeneration.[1]
Influence and legacy
The story of the Hydra and Herakles' survived through the years, and was memorized in reliefs used to decorate temples and households.[1]
During the Peloponnesian War a member and the Sage of the Gods of the Aegean Sea branch of the Cult of Kosmos used the creature's name as his cryptonym.[1]
On the Aegean Sea during the 5th century also sailed a ship called Kechrias, whose sails and finery bore the image of the Hydra, to the point that they were called The Hydra's Venom.[1]
One of Layla Hassan's Animus modifications allowed Kassandra to obtain greaves adorned with the shape of the Hydra, as well as sails and a figurehead featuring the likeness of the Hydra for the ship Adrestia.[1]
Gallery
Appearances
- Assassin's Creed: Odyssey (mentioned only)
References